Understanding the relationship between GP training and improved patient care - a qualitative study of GP educators

Previous research has highlighted the benefits of receiving care in a postgraduate GP training practice including improved patient satisfaction, more appropriate secondary care usage, cancer diagnosis, and antibiotic prescribing. Whilst the influence of being registered in a postgraduate GP training practice on patient outcomes is modest relative to other factors such as deprivation, disease burden, demography, and ethnicity, the reasons for this benefit is not clear.

This study explores how GP trainers perceive engagement with clinical education influences patient care.

Socio-cultural theories were used as a framework for guiding the research. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 GP educators. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data analysis involved thematic analysis.

GP educators identified four overarching themes that, for them, seemed to explain how clinical education mediates its influence on patient care. These included: influencing through (i) educational leadership; (ii) learners; (iii) the educational process; and (iv) educational standards.

Findings suggest that GP trainees have a significant effect on the learning environment, professional development of GP trainers, and patient care. The nature of the relationship between GP trainers and trainees appears far more bilateral than acknowledged in the apprenticeship model.